Magistrates in Ondo State have made a desperate appeal to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, highlighting the severe risks and indignity they endure by being forced to use public transportation for their official duties.
A Daily Commute with Criminals
The Magistrates Association of Nigeria (MAN), Ondo State chapter, raised the alarm during a recent courtesy visit to elder statesman Senator Bode Olajumoke in Akure. The delegation, led by State Chairman Magistrate Funmi Edwin and accompanied by the Akure Branch Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Friday Umar, detailed a troubling reality.
Speaking for the association, Chief Magistrate Damilola Sekoni disclosed that no fewer than 60 magistrates in the state lack official vehicles. He revealed that many magistrates have sustained injuries from accidents involving commercial motorcycles and vehicles while traveling to work.
"We, on a daily basis, hop on commercial vehicles, most times with criminals and litigants standing trial before us, with the attendant security risk to our individual lives," Sekoni stated. He described the situation as both undignified and unsafe, stressing that magistrates need to feel protected to dispense justice effectively.
A History of Neglect and Broken Promises
NBA Chairman Friday Umar lamented the state government's prolonged neglect of the magistrates' welfare. He pointed out that the last time magistrates received official vehicles was during the administration of former Governor Olusegun Mimiko, and all those beneficiaries have since retired.
Umar further disclosed a recent but unfulfilled promise, noting that while approval was given for the purchase of 10 new official vehicles, no tangible progress has been made. "It's sad that magistrates in the state board the same commercial vehicles with criminals when going to perform their duties in court," he said.
The magistrates also presented additional requests, including the construction of a proper secretariat for MAN, the provision of an official bus, and financial support for their end-of-year picnic.
Promises of Intervention
In his response, Senator Olajumoke promised to look into their requests and assured the delegation that he would discuss the matter directly with Governor Aiyedatiwa. He urged the magistrates to continue upholding the ethics of the legal profession.
Mr. Sam Amuka-Pemu, Publisher of Vanguard Media Limited, who was also present, thanked the magistrates for the visit and encouraged them to continue promoting the rule of law and maintaining integrity within the justice system.
The magistrates' plea underscores a critical need for the state government to prioritize the welfare of judicial officers, ensuring their safety and the integrity of the courts.
